Makinde accuses Wike of threatening democracy in Nigeria

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has broken his silence on the political rift between him and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, saying their disagreement stems from Wike’s alleged push for a one-party Nigeria.

Makinde, who spoke on Tuesday, revealed the fallout had nothing to do with internal issues within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), but with safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.

The governor and Wike were prominent allies during the 2023 elections as part of the G5 Governors who opposed their party’s presidential candidate. Their relationship has since deteriorated, despite both remaining members of the PDP.

Makinde reiterated that his stance is driven by a commitment to uphold the multiparty structure envisioned by Nigeria’s founding fathers.

“The issue is that we do not believe in a one-party Nigeria. Our founding fathers gave us a multiparty democracy, and we must sustain it so Nigerians can have options when choosing their leaders,” he said.

He added that the current political tension is a necessary phase in defending the country’s democratic values.

“We should know that this is a case of it gets worse before it gets better. And if we have to stay here for the next two weeks so that democracy will survive in Nigeria, you will see us here,” he said.

Makinde insisted he would not engage in personal attacks, stressing that the debate should remain focused on national issues rather than individuals or events.